Women in BIO & Health Industry Forum

This event features inspirational businesswomen from leading Queensland biotechnology, biomedical and health companies who have successfully built national and global partnerships to grow supply chains, exports and research collaborations. This industry and networking forum on 27 February 2026 will offer their insights and advice as well as information on export, trade and industry support programs – followed by networking over morning tea.

In collaboration with Life Sciences Queensland, Herston Health Precinct and QIMR Berghofer

The Program

Dr Kym Baker, General Manager, Pharma Services, Thermo Fisher Scientific

As General Manager of Patheon Biologics, a brand of Thermo Fisher Scientific, Kym leads a team that manufactures biotherapeutics for clients ranging from Australian and APAC-based companies to global pharmaceutical giants. Kym will provide strategic insights into collaboration and navigation strategies to build supply chain and ecosystem partnerships, quality processes and end-to-end solutions.

Dr Chamindika Konara, Managing Director & CEO, Qlicksmart

Chamindika leads Brisbane company Qlicksmart’s development of innovative products and quality procedures for medical sharps and safety devices and its exports to 50 countries worldwide. Chamindika will share her expertise and approaches to local and overseas partnership development and establishing multiple sales and distribution arrangements.

Tamanna Monem, Head of Growth and Partnerships, Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) Berghofer

The QIMR Berghofer is one of Australia's largest medical research institutes with 60 state-of-the-art laboratories, world-leading research, innovative programs and manufacturing. Tamanna will discuss the institute’s innovative models and approaches to regional, Queensland and overseas partnership development including technology transfer and talent development.

Panel Discussion and Q&A

• Panel - Kym, Chamindika, Tamanna and Prof Juliet French, QIMR Berghofer Program Director
• Moderator – Bec Mac, Journalist & Entrepreneur.

Support – Export, Trade and Industry Programs

• Austrade – Ann Damien, Global Biotech Lead
• Trade & Investment Queensland – Young-Mi Kim
• Life Sciences Queensland – Natalie Davis.

Morning Tea and Networking

• Foyer, Level 3, QIMR Berghofer, Herston

Event details

Date: Friday, 27 February 2026

Time: 8.45am for 9.00am - 11.30am

Venue: Auditorium, Level 3, QIMR Berghofer, 300 Herston Road, Herston.

Entry via Reception off Herston Road. Sign in first with Security.

Public Transport: Buses arrive at Herston Station located across the road from the STARS hospital (which is one building up from QIMRB).

Parking: Cornerstoneparking, 325 Herston Road. Payment is at the machines near the Pedestrian bridge.

Other nearby car parking options - Parking and transport | Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital

On-street parking in Herston is also available.

Cost: $15.00 to cover refreshments.

RSVP by: 20 February 2026

More information

Contact Sue McNulty
SEQ North Regional Office
Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning (DSDIP)

Tel: 07 3882 8401
Email: sue.mcnulty@dsdip.qld.gov.au

Photographs may be taken during the event and reproduced for DSDIP for promotional purposes. In registering for the event you agree to have your photo taken and for the photo to be used for promotional purposes. If you have any further questions, please contact the event organisers. DSDIP collects information, including personal information on this form for the purpose of registration to attend business seminars run by the department. This information will not be disclosed to any third parties, unless authorised or required by law. Workshops may be cancelled if registration levels are not met. You will be notified of alternatives available to you.

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